We are faced with different choices every day. Choosing the right form of contraception is one of these choices, and it can seem like a difficult one when there are so many types of birth control options available for women today.
There are more than 15 different forms of contraception currently available, including contraceptive pill, intrauterine devices, implants and patches. Here at ContraceptionClinic.co.uk, we aim to provide you with comprehensive information about each birth control option available to you in the UK, including how each form works, what side effects may occur and what benefits each can provide.
If you've had problems with a particular type of contraception in the past, you may want to consider the many different options available to you. With the right method of birth control, you can enjoy the peace of mind of knowing you are receiving the highest level of protection in a form that is best suited to your body and your lifestyle.
Combined contraceptive pills are designed for oral use and contain a mix of two synthetic hormones: oestrogen and progestogen. These hormones work in your body to prevent pregnancy with almost 100% effectiveness. Combined oral contraceptive pills can be either monophasic, biphasic or triphasic, depending on the differing levels of hormones contained within each pack.
Otherwise known as the mini-pill, the progestogen-only pill contains only one synthetic hormone, progestogen. It is often recommended to women who are older than 35 or who smoke, as combined pills are usually not suitable for them. The lack of oestrogen means there is a lower risk of side effects with the mini-pill.
The contraceptive patch is a small, thin patch which sticks to your skin and releases synthetic oestrogen and progestogen into your bloodstream. It is over 99% effective as a method of birth control and is an increasingly popular choice for women who find it difficult or inconvenient to have to take a pill every single day.
The contraceptive ring is a small, flexible ring that is inserted into the vagina once per cycle, where it stays for three weeks. It is a popular alternative to the pill because it is very convenient. It releases a steady dose of synthetic oestrogen and progestogen into your body, providing almost 100% protection against pregnancy.
Emergency contraception, also known as the morning-after pill, can prevent you from becoming pregnant if you have had unprotected sex. There is a choice of two options, with one being effective within 72 hours (Levonelle) and the other within five days (ellaOne). These pills contain concentrated doses of synthetic hormones, oestrogen and progestogen.
